"We beseech the responsible media to consider the source and its reputation and to please not perpetuate this destructive and insulting story by pursuing it any further."

Culkin's father and stepmother also voiced their concerns over his reported drug abuse, with the latter saying: "Oh no, this is not good. Either he's dying of some disease or he's heavily into drugs.

"Now we're hearing he is denying the allegations - but it certainly looks like he is on drugs. He looks awful. There will always be a sadness in Kit that I can't fix. Our house is always open to Kit's children. Kit still loves him and all of his family."